The ongoing wave of consolidation in the semiconductor sector is geared at gaining scale in two key areas of investment – carrier infrastructure and internet of things (IoT) devices and hubs. However, it is also creating confusion in the core landscape – Intel acquired two ARM-based units, LSI’s Axxia and Mindspeed’s Picochip, for its network processor push; now Microsemi is buying Vitesse Semiconductor, bringing a MIPS-based cuckoo into its ARM nest. The proposed acquisition is valued at $389m or $5.28 per Vitesse share, a 36% premium over its closing price on Tuesday. However, the firm has until April 8 to solicit a counter-bid, if it chooses, under the terms of the deal. If the transaction goes ahead, Microsemi says it…